Harlequins fly-half Marcus Smith, 19, was another big winner on the night as his breakthrough campaign was rewarded with the young player of the year award.

"It's an enormous privilege to win this award," Veainu said. "I am very surprised but also very thankful for the awesome support shown by my peers. I must give credit to my Leicester teammates and coaching staff.

"Rugby is obviously a team sport and while these individual awards are very humbling, it takes 14 other guys to do their jobs on the pitch to allow me to play my best. Without their support I wouldn't be where I am today."

Other notable award winners on the night included England Men's POTY Mako Vunipola, Danielle Waterman -- who picked up the top accolade in the women's game -- and 2003 Rugby World Cup-winning coach Sir Clive Woodward, who was inducted into the RPA Hall of Fame.